Proud to be aHoustonian
Easy and safe voting
Regarding “Harris County breaks alltime voter turnout record, surpassing 2016 election” (Oct. 29): No matter the results of the 2020 elections, we should all be grateful for the poised leadership of Harris County Clerk Chris Collins. He has handled this election in a way that made it easier and safer for all voters to cast their ballots. While I give credit to Gov. Greg Abbott for expanding early voting, Collins has stood up to numerous frivolous court cases to ensure safe, efficient voting during a global pandemic. His work has also been supported by Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo.
We need more leaders like Collins and Hidalgo. They have made this voter proud to be a Houstonian.
Linda Rehm, Houston
Heartless act
Regarding “3 killed in knife attack at French church,” (A8, Oct. 30): On Oct. 29, three innocent churchgoers were murdered while trying to practice their faith. As a Muslim, I condemn this heartless act and extend my sincerest sympathies to the French people. I pray that God gives the family of those innocent people strength to endure such a tragedy. I am pained that this act was carried out in the name of Islam. As an Ahmadi Muslim, I believe in The Holy Quran, which says, “...Whosoever killed a person — unless it be for killing a person or for creating disorder in the land — it shall be as if he had killed all mankind” (5:33). The individual who carried out these horrific attacks does not represent Islam or Muslims in anyway. My Islam teaches peace and serving humanity. The motto of my religious community is “Love for All, Hatred for None.”
Rahman Nasir, Houston
Friends, not enemies
Regarding “Rayburn’s personal ethics still inspired,” (A3, Nov. 2): I appreciate Joe Holley’s piece on young Sam Rayburn’s 1906 campaign for the Texas House. While a primary contest — so intra-party, where you might expect a bit more civility — it was still a refreshing reminder that political opponents can be respectful and gracious toward one another, to the point even of becoming friends. I contrast that with our current condition, where each day I receive multiple mail pieces from candidates of both parties, all suggesting that their opponent is nothing short of the devil himself. I’m not sure how we’re going to break this fever of hyper-partisanship, but if things continue down the current road, this country is headed for big trouble. We’d do well to remember the words of President Lincoln in his first inaugural address, who, as the country was coming apart, reminded Americans that, “We are not enemies, but friends. Though passion may have strained, it must not break our bonds of affection.” David Bradley, Spring